Crocodiles were dangerous animals, but Sobek, probably the divinity depicted in this amulet, was a benevolent water deity. The Nile issuing from his sweat made the valley productive, and as a fertility god he was linked to the myth surrounding rebirth in the afterlife. The fine quality of this piece suggests it was a temple offering.

Provenance

Collection of Norbert Schimmel, by 1974 when published. Donated to the Museum by the Norbert Schimmel Trust, 1995. Published in the MMA Bulletin, Spring 1992.